Nice to meet you. I'm Michael Bean, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Lic# MFC40911. My wife and I have raised 4 awesome kids (awesome adults now) & have learned to love each other & to love life despite a lot of challenges. My passion is helping people figure out how to live happily too.
My approach
Although Mindfulness-Based Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT or MBCBT) is the foundation beneath all my work, I use a very person-centered problem-solving approach similar to Reality Therapy.
My focus
My clients are mostly older adolescents and adults who are struggling with grief and loss, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, and difficult and complicated relationships.
My communication style
I love people, and it shows during my sessions with them. I'm very relaxed with people, and very often my being at ease puts my clients at ease too.
My journey to mental healthcare
When my parents got therapy, for themselves and for their relationship, all our lives got better. I just had to pass that favor along to the next generation, so with a lot of help from family I prepared myself to be the best therapist I possibly could. Seeing individuals and couples hold their heads up with the confidence that comes from putting problems behind them is the most rewarding work I could possibly do.
My goals for you
The best way I've found to face the huge issues that often need facing — often the ONLY way — is with the support of another trusted, caring human being. My priority is to create that kind of relationship with my clients. In that supportive atmosphere, we can talk about the end goal, the obstacles, and the milestones that will mark progress along the way.
My first session with you
Within the first few sessions, expect me to get to know YOU. Not just the issue or issues you bring to therapy, but your life. Your habits, your values, your loves — all the things that make you who you are. I can only help you if I really know who you are.